My ignition lock got stuck, so I bought a new one. What do I need to do to remove/install it exactly?

 

find the correct link for you year steering column and read and follow it.
the steering column articles are down the page a ways.

http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/?page_id=4

 

Thank you very much, good pictures in there too! Any particular style puller needed do you know?

 

Steering wheel pullers usually come with a couple different bolts that thread into the tapped holes in the steering wheel hub. Make sure that the bolts are threaded evenly side to side so that you are pulling straight and square to the steering shaft. You can snap the bolts if you are not square.

Depending upon the end of the center bolt you have to be a bit careful if you have a T&T column. The end of the steering column shaft is threaded for the "star" screw that locks the telescope feature. The center bolt can distort the end thread if the bolt is pointed. I just place a penny on the end of the shaft and let the center bolt distort the penny. It takes quite a bit of pressure to "pop" the steering wheel hub off of the tapered steering shaft.

The other special tool that you require is the bridge type tool that compresses the lock plate and allows you to remove the C-clip (T&T column) or the round wire ring (standard non-adjustable type). You can usually borrow both type tools from auto supply houses rather than having to purchase them.

One last tip, on T&T columns there is a urethane plastic retainer that is placed over the C-clip. This retainer almost always breaks into pieces when you try to remove it. You might just as well purchase one before starting the process. The retainer not only holds the C-clip in place, it also isolates the big telescope spring from touching the metal lock plate and having your horn blowing continuously.

GM dealers - Retainer #7808385
Zip Store - 69-82 Cancelling Cam Plastic Retainer SC-517

Jim

 

OK thanks Jim. My horn is disconnected, do I still need that clip?

 

I assume that you will still be closing the contacts in the horn relay (even with the horns disconnected). I would assume that it will cause heat and probably ruin the relay eventually.
Jim

 

The horn relay power wire is already disconnected as it had developed a short.

 

Clip also helps retain the "C" clip on the column lockout plate but, the horn contact plate also has 3 ridges to retain the "C" clip.